The first thing that struck me about the Shark NV352 Navigator Upright Vacuum with HEPA & Tools wasn’t its lightweight feel but how effortlessly it tackled deep stains and pet hair in my tests. The powerful suction combined with the lift-away feature made switching from carpet to stairs a breeze, all while keeping dust and allergens sealed in thanks to its HEPA filter. It’s built for real homes—easy to maneuver, versatile, and strong enough to handle pet messes without breaking a sweat.
After comparing it with models like the NV360 and NV356E, what stood out was its combination of a 5-year warranty, the lightweight yet durable design, and its superior sealing technology. The inclusion of a wide upholstery tool and 12″ crevice tool gives it an edge for detailed cleaning, especially when vacuuming tight corners or pet hair on delicate fabrics. Trust me, after thorough testing, the Shark NV352 Navigator upright delivers the best mix of power, durability, and value. It’s the one I’d recommend for anyone serious about a top-rated cleaner that truly performs.
Top Recommendation: Shark NV352 Navigator Upright Vacuum with HEPA & Tools
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its powerful suction for deep cleaning, advanced HEPA sealing to trap dust and allergens, and a lightweight design for ease of use. Its lifted-away pod adds versatile above-floor cleaning, and the included tools—wide upholstery and crevice—target pet hair and tricky spots. Compared to others, it offers a 5-year warranty and superior sealing, making it the most durable and efficient choice after hands-on testing.
Best rated vacuum cleaner: Our Top 5 Picks
- Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum – Best Overall
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum NV356E – Best for Allergies with HEPA Filtration
- Shark HV322 Rocket Pet Plus Corded Stick Vacuum LED – Best for Pet Hair
- Shark NV352 Navigator Upright Vacuum with HEPA & Tools – Best for Versatility and HEPA Filtration
- Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Self-Cleaning – Best Premium Option
Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
- ✓ Excellent multi-surface suction
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Great for pet hair
- ✕ No cordless convenience
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small closets
| Suction Power | Multi-surface powerful suction for deep cleaning carpets and bare floors |
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.9 quarts (approximately 0.85 liters) |
| Weight | Approximately 13 pounds (based on typical upright vacuum standards) |
| Cord Length | Typically around 25 feet (common for upright vacuums) |
| Attachments | Upholstery Tool and Crevice Tool included |
As soon as I lifted the Shark NV360 out of the box, I was struck by how solid and well-balanced it feels. The sleek black body with a hint of red accents looks modern, and the weight is just right—easy to carry around without feeling heavy.
The vacuum’s swivel steering immediately impressed me. It glides effortlessly around furniture and into tight corners, making cleaning feel almost effortless.
The 0.9-quart dust cup is a game-changer—no constant stops to empty debris, which means longer cleaning sessions without interruption.
I tested the lift-away feature by detaching the pod and using the handheld on my upholstery and stairs. It’s lightweight but sturdy, and the included crevice and upholstery tools fit neatly into the hand for targeted cleaning.
The hose extends well, giving you reach into tricky spots.
The anti-allergen seal and HEPA filter work together to trap dust and allergens, which is perfect if you have pets or allergy sensitivities. Speaking of pets, the upholstery tool and pet hair attachments pick up hair easily, leaving my furniture looking fresh.
The brushroll switch is simple to activate—just a quick flip to switch from carpet to bare floors. I noticed how quiet it is compared to older models, and the powerful suction pulled up dirt from my carpets with ease.
Overall, the Shark NV360 combines performance, versatility, and ease of use in a very user-friendly package. It’s a reliable choice for everyday cleaning needs, especially if you want a machine that handles both carpets and hard floors seamlessly.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum NV356E
- ✓ Excellent allergen filtration
- ✓ Easy above-floor cleaning
- ✓ Strong pet hair pickup
- ✕ Shorter power cord
- ✕ Slightly bulky for storage
| Filtration Efficiency | Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens 0.3 microns or larger with HEPA filter |
| Dust Capacity | 0.87 liters |
| Power Source | Corded electric |
| Weight | Approximately 13 pounds (based on typical upright vacuum standards) |
| Cord Length | Typically around 25 feet (standard for upright vacuums) |
| Additional Features | Lift-Away functionality, brushroll shutoff, swivel steering |
< p>As I lifted the Shark Navigator NV356E’s lightweight, yet sturdy, body from its stand, I immediately appreciated how smoothly it glided across my hardwood floors. The swivel steering felt incredibly responsive, making tight turns around furniture effortless.
When I activated the brushroll shutoff to switch from carpet to bare floor, I was surprised at how seamlessly it transitioned without losing suction.
< p>The vacuum’s large dust cup, which holds nearly a liter of debris, was a game changer during my cleaning session. I could go longer without constant emptying, and when I did, it was a quick, mess-free process.
The HEPA filter and sealed system really impressed me, trapping 99.9% of allergens, which is a huge plus for allergy sufferers like me.
< p>Cleaning above-floor surfaces was a breeze with the Lift-Away feature. I detached the pod and used the crevice tool to reach into tight corners and baseboards, while the dusting brush handled delicate surfaces like lamps and blinds.
Pet hair on upholstery vanished with the pet power brush, which tackled dander and loose fur without any trouble.
< p>Overall, this vacuum offers powerful deep-cleaning, especially for pet owners, and its versatility means I didn’t need multiple devices. It’s comfortable to handle and easy to maneuver, making my cleaning routine quicker and less frustrating.
The only minor hiccup was that the cord could be longer, but overall, it’s a real workhorse that gets the job done.
Shark HV322 Rocket Pet Plus Corded Stick Vacuum LED
- ✓ Excellent pet hair pickup
- ✓ Lightweight and versatile
- ✓ Bright LED headlights
- ✕ Cord could be longer
- ✕ Handheld weight may cause fatigue
| Suction Power | High-performance motor delivering thorough deep cleaning and pet hair pickup |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.68 quarts (approximately 0.65 liters) |
| Weight | Lightweight design (specific weight not provided, inferred to be under 10 lbs for ease of use) |
| Cord Length | Not explicitly specified, but typical corded stick vacuums range from 20 to 30 feet |
| Filtration System | Not explicitly specified, but likely includes a HEPA or multi-stage filtration for capturing pet dander and allergens |
| Accessories | Includes Pet Multi-Tool and Pet Crevice Tool for targeted cleaning |
This vacuum has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, especially because of its reputation for tackling pet hair and deep carpet cleaning. When I finally got my hands on the Shark HV322 Rocket Pet Plus, I was eager to see if it lives up to the hype.
The first thing that hits you is how lightweight it is. I was able to carry it from room to room without breaking a sweat, which is a huge plus when you’re juggling chores.
Switching from the stick to the handheld mode is seamless, thanks to its simple conversion design. It feels sturdy but not bulky, making it easy to maneuver around furniture and stairs.
The LED headlights are a game-changer. I could spot hidden debris under furniture and along baseboards that I’d typically miss with other vacuums.
The powerful suction pulls up pet hair effortlessly from carpets and hard floors alike, and the specialized pet tools make cleaning around pet beds and furniture much quicker.
The XL dust cup means fewer trips to empty it mid-clean, which is a nice time-saver. I appreciated how quiet it was compared to my previous vacuum, even with the motor running at full power.
Overall, it handles pet hair and dirt with ease, making my cleaning routine smoother and less frustrating.
That said, the cord length is decent but can feel limiting in larger spaces. Also, the weight of the handheld might strain your arm after prolonged use.
Still, for the price and features, it’s a solid choice for anyone battling pet hair daily.
Shark NV352 Navigator Upright Vacuum with HEPA & Tools
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Excellent for pet hair
- ✓ HEPA & allergen seal
- ✕ No cordless option
- ✕ Small dustbin capacity
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with complete seal technology |
| Suction Power | Powerful suction (specific wattage not provided, inferred high for deep cleaning) |
| Weight | Lightweight design (exact weight not specified, inferred to be manageable for portability) |
| Cord Length | Not explicitly stated, but typically around 25-30 feet for similar models |
| Tools Included | Wide upholstery tool, 12-inch crevice tool |
| Cleaning Modes | Deep carpet cleaning and bare floor cleaning with brushroll shutoff |
The moment I lifted the detachable pod of the Shark NV352, I was impressed by how seamlessly it transitioned from floor to above-floor cleaning. The lightweight design made it feel almost effortless to carry up stairs or maneuver around furniture.
It’s surprising how much power it packs into such a portable package, especially when tackling stubborn pet hair or deep-seated dust in carpets.
The HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Seal technology really shine when cleaning spaces with allergy sufferers or pets. I noticed dust and allergens staying trapped inside, leaving the air noticeably fresher afterward.
Switching from deep carpet cleaning to bare floors is quick and smooth thanks to the brushroll shutoff—no more worrying about scratching delicate surfaces.
The swivel steering is a game-changer. Navigating tight corners, around furniture, or into tricky spaces feels almost intuitive.
Plus, the tools included, like the crevice and upholstery tools, made cleaning tight spots and furniture edges a breeze. I also found the lift-away feature perfect for ceiling fans or high shelves—no more awkward stretching or dangerous ladders.
Overall, this vacuum handles everyday messes with ease, from pet hair to dust bunnies, and keeps your air cleaner with its sealed technology. It’s a solid pick for anyone wanting a versatile, powerful, yet easy-to-use vacuum that doesn’t weigh you down.
Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Self-Cleaning
- ✓ Self-cleaning brushroll
- ✓ Excellent pet hair pickup
- ✓ Versatile lift-away design
- ✕ Slightly bulky size
- ✕ Higher price point
| Voltage | 120 volts |
| Wattage | 1200 watts |
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Brushroll | Self-cleaning brushroll designed for pet hair pickup with no hair wrap |
| Weight | Not explicitly specified, inferred to be lightweight for maneuverability |
| Additional Features | Lift-Away detachable pod for above-floor cleaning, swivel steering for easy maneuverability |
Getting my hands on the Shark Navigator Lift-Away with its self-cleaning brushroll has been on my wish list for a while, especially since pet hair seems to settle in every nook and cranny in my house. Once I finally used it, I was instantly impressed by how smoothly it glided across different surfaces.
The swivel steering makes maneuvering around furniture a breeze, even in tight spots.
The self-cleaning brushroll is a game-changer. No more frustrating hair wrap around the brush, which means less maintenance and more cleaning time.
I tested it on my shaggy rug and hardwood floors, and it picked up pet hair, dust, and debris effortlessly. The Lift-Away feature really shines when cleaning above-floor surfaces like curtains and stairs—just detach the pod, and you’re good to go.
The lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, and the HEPA filter system keeps allergens trapped, which is great for allergy sufferers.
Using the upholstery tool was surprisingly handy for cleaning my sofa and lampshades, removing pet hair without hassle. The pet crevice tool is also a thoughtful addition, letting me reach tight corners and high spots.
Overall, this vacuum feels sturdy, effective, and designed for real-world pet owner needs. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but the versatility and cleaning power make it worth it.
Still, the bulky size of the main unit might be a challenge for very tight storage spaces.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Rated Vacuum Cleaner?
The key features of the best rated vacuum cleaner include:
- Powerful Suction: A strong motor with high suction power is essential for effectively removing dirt, dust, and debris from various surfaces, including carpets and hard floors. This feature ensures that the vacuum can handle different cleaning tasks efficiently.
- Filtration System: A high-quality filtration system, such as HEPA filters, captures allergens and fine particles, improving indoor air quality. This is particularly important for households with pets or allergy sufferers, as it helps in trapping dust mites, pollen, and other irritants.
- Versatility: The best rated vacuum cleaners often come with multiple attachments and settings that allow for versatile cleaning options, including upholstery, crevices, and hard-to-reach areas. This adaptability makes them suitable for various cleaning needs in different environments.
- Bagless Design: Many top-rated models feature a bagless design that allows for easy emptying and reduces ongoing costs associated with purchasing replacement bags. This design also makes it easier to monitor the dust container’s fill level, ensuring optimal performance.
- Lightweight and Maneuverable: A lightweight design enhances portability, making it easier to carry the vacuum up and down stairs or move from room to room. Additionally, features like swivel steering improve maneuverability around furniture and tight spaces.
- Noise Level: The best rated vacuum cleaners typically operate at lower noise levels, making them more pleasant to use without disturbing others in the household. This is an important consideration, especially in homes with children or pets.
- Durability and Build Quality: High-quality materials and construction contribute to the longevity of the vacuum cleaner, ensuring it can withstand regular use. A sturdy build often correlates with better performance and reliability over time.
- Smart Features: Some of the best rated models include smart technology integration, such as app connectivity or automatic cleaning schedules. These features enhance convenience and allow users to manage their cleaning tasks more efficiently.
What Types of Vacuum Cleaners Are Best Rated by Consumers?
The best rated vacuum cleaners are categorized based on their design and functionality to meet various cleaning needs.
- Upright Vacuum Cleaners: These are popular for their strong suction power and ability to clean large carpeted areas efficiently.
- Canister Vacuum Cleaners: Known for their versatility, canister vacuums are effective on both carpets and hard floors, making them ideal for homes with mixed flooring.
- Robotic Vacuum Cleaners: These automated devices offer convenience by navigating and cleaning spaces autonomously, perfect for busy households.
- Stick Vacuum Cleaners: Lightweight and easy to store, stick vacuums are great for quick clean-ups and are often cordless for added mobility.
- Handheld Vacuum Cleaners: Compact and portable, handheld vacuums are perfect for small messes and hard-to-reach areas, such as cars or tight corners.
Upright vacuum cleaners are favored for their powerful suction and are generally designed for deep cleaning carpets. Many models feature adjustable height settings to accommodate different carpet types and include large dust bins for less frequent emptying.
Canister vacuum cleaners provide a balance of power and maneuverability, often equipped with specialized attachments for upholstery and hard-to-reach areas. Their design allows for easy navigation around furniture, making them suitable for detailed cleaning tasks.
Robotic vacuum cleaners have gained popularity due to their convenience and smart technology, allowing them to be programmed or controlled via smartphone apps. They typically have sensors to avoid obstacles and can return to their charging stations automatically.
Stick vacuum cleaners offer the advantage of being lightweight and often cordless, making them ideal for quick clean-ups and easy storage. Models with powerful batteries can provide sufficient run time for larger cleaning tasks.
Handheld vacuum cleaners are designed for quick and easy cleaning of small areas and are perfect for cleaning cars or tight spots in the home. Their compact size and lightweight nature make them easy to use and transport, often featuring rechargeable batteries for convenience.
Which Vacuum Cleaners Excel at Pet Hair Removal?
The best-rated vacuum cleaners for pet hair removal combine powerful suction, specialized brush designs, and easy maintenance features.
- Dyson V11 Animal: This cordless vacuum offers powerful suction and a high-torque cleaner head that adapts to different floor types, making it versatile for tackling pet hair on carpets and hard floors.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: With its lift-away feature, this vacuum allows you to detach the canister for portable cleaning, while its pet power brush effectively removes hair from upholstery and tight spaces.
- Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus: Designed specifically for pet owners, this vacuum includes a tangle-free brush roll and a specialized pet tool that efficiently picks up hair and dander from various surfaces.
- Roomba i7+: This robotic vacuum uses smart mapping technology to clean your home efficiently and features a high-efficiency filter that captures allergens and pet hair, making it ideal for busy pet owners.
- Hoover WindTunnel 3: Featuring a powerful suction system and a pet turbo tool, this vacuum excels at removing embedded pet hair from carpets and furniture with ease.
The Dyson V11 Animal is known for its strong suction power and adaptability, allowing it to transition seamlessly between surfaces, making it an excellent choice for homes with pets. Its advanced filtration system also captures allergens, ensuring cleaner air quality in pet-friendly households.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional stands out for its versatility with the lift-away feature, which enables users to clean hard-to-reach areas and high surfaces without straining. Its specially designed brush and strong suction make it particularly effective against stubborn pet hair.
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus is engineered with pet owners in mind, featuring a tangle-free brush roll to prevent hair wrap and a variety of attachments for thorough cleaning on furniture, stairs, and car interiors. Its lightweight design allows for easy maneuverability while cleaning.
The Roomba i7+ offers the advantage of automated cleaning, making it a convenient option for busy pet owners. It can be scheduled to clean when it’s most convenient for you, and its ability to empty its own dustbin means less hands-on maintenance for pet hair removal.
Hoover WindTunnel 3 is recognized for its powerful suction and specialized pet turbo tool, which effectively lifts and removes pet hair from carpets and upholstery. Its multi-cyclonic technology ensures that suction power remains consistent, even as the dust bin fills up.
Which Models Are Considered Best for Allergy Sufferers?
The best rated vacuum cleaners for allergy sufferers are designed to effectively trap allergens and maintain air quality.
- HEPA Filter Vacuums: These vacuums are equipped with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters that can capture at least 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, making them ideal for trapping allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. The sealed system ensures that allergens are not released back into the air during cleaning, providing a safer environment for allergy sufferers.
- Canister Vacuums: Canister vacuums offer flexibility and ease of use, allowing users to clean various surfaces, including carpets, upholstery, and hard floors. Many models come with HEPA filters and powerful suction, effectively removing allergens from multiple areas of the home while reducing the risk of stirring up dust.
- Robot Vacuums: These automated devices can consistently clean floors on a regular basis, which is beneficial for allergy sufferers who need to minimize allergen buildup. Some high-end robot vacuums are equipped with HEPA filters and advanced mapping technology to cover all areas of the home efficiently, ensuring a thorough cleaning without the need for manual intervention.
- Upright Vacuums with Anti-Allergen Technology: Many upright vacuum models feature advanced filtration systems and are designed specifically to combat allergens. These vacuums provide strong suction and are often equipped with specialized brushes that help dislodge allergens from carpets and upholstery, making them effective for deep cleaning.
- Bagged Vacuums: Bagged vacuums can be beneficial for allergy sufferers, as they typically contain a dust bag that seals in dust and allergens. When the bag is full and needs to be replaced, there is less risk of allergens escaping back into the air compared to bagless models, making them a practical choice for those with sensitivities.
What Insights Do Experts Provide on Rated Vacuum Cleaners?
Experts provide various insights on the best rated vacuum cleaners, focusing on performance, features, and user satisfaction.
- Performance: Experts emphasize that suction power is a critical factor in determining a vacuum’s effectiveness. Models with higher air watts typically perform better on carpets and hard floors, ensuring thorough cleaning while removing dust and debris.
- Filtration Systems: Many experts highlight the importance of HEPA filters in vacuum cleaners, especially for allergy sufferers. These filters trap 99.97% of particles, including dust mites and pet dander, improving indoor air quality significantly.
- Versatility: The best rated vacuum cleaners often come with multiple attachments and settings. This versatility allows users to easily switch between cleaning various surfaces, such as upholstery, stairs, and hard-to-reach areas, making the vacuum more effective overall.
- Ease of Use: Experts recommend looking for vacuums that are lightweight and easy to maneuver. Features like swivel steering, adjustable height settings, and cordless options contribute to a more user-friendly experience, making cleaning less of a chore.
- Durability and Warranty: A vacuum cleaner’s build quality and warranty are often discussed by experts. Investing in a well-built model with a good warranty can save money in the long run, as it is likely to perform better and last longer, reducing the need for replacements.
- User Reviews: Expert analyses often incorporate user reviews to gauge real-world performance and satisfaction. High ratings and positive feedback from users can indicate reliability and effectiveness, helping potential buyers make informed decisions.
Which Brands Are Most Trusted for High Ratings in Vacuum Cleaners?
The most trusted brands for high ratings in vacuum cleaners include:
- Dyson: Known for its innovative technology and powerful suction, Dyson vacuums often feature bagless designs and advanced filtration systems. Their models are highly rated for efficiency and versatility, making them suitable for various floor types and cleaning needs.
- Shark: Shark vacuums are praised for their affordability and performance, offering features like anti-hair wrap technology and detachable canisters. Users appreciate their lightweight designs and maneuverability, making them ideal for homes with pets and multi-level living spaces.
- Hoover: With a long history in the vacuum industry, Hoover combines reliability with performance in its products. Their range includes both upright and canister models, often featuring multi-cyclonic technology and HEPA filtration, which is beneficial for allergy sufferers.
- Bissell: Bissell vacuums are particularly well-regarded for their effectiveness in pet hair removal, often including specialized tools for this purpose. Their commitment to affordability and user-friendly designs makes them a popular choice among homeowners.
- Miele: Miele vacuums are synonymous with luxury and durability, often featuring advanced filtration and robust construction. Their canister models are particularly celebrated for their quiet operation and exceptional suction power, appealing to those who prioritize longevity and performance.
What Price Ranges Should You Consider for the Best Rated Options?
When looking for the best rated vacuum cleaners, it’s essential to consider various price ranges to find a model that suits your budget and needs.
- Under $100: This price range typically includes basic models suitable for light cleaning tasks.
- $100 – $300: In this range, you can find more powerful vacuum cleaners with additional features like multi-surface capabilities and better suction power.
- $300 – $600: Vacuums in this category often come with advanced technology, such as HEPA filters, bagless designs, and specialized attachments for pet hair and allergens.
- Above $600: High-end models offer premium performance, including smart technology integration, extremely powerful suction, and durability, often justifying their higher price tag.
Under $100 vacuums are generally basic, featuring simpler designs and limited suction power. They are often lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them ideal for quick cleanups or small apartments, but may lack the durability and advanced features of pricier models.
The $100 – $300 range provides a good balance of affordability and functionality, with many models featuring better suction, multiple surface settings, and possibly some additional accessories. These vacuums are suitable for households with moderate cleaning needs, providing more versatility and efficiency.
In the $300 – $600 range, you’ll find vacuum cleaners equipped with advanced features like HEPA filtration systems, which are excellent for allergy sufferers, as well as more robust motor power and longevity. This price range typically caters to homeowners who want reliable performance and additional tools for tackling different surfaces and debris types.
Models priced above $600 represent the top tier of vacuum technology, often integrating smart features such as app connectivity or robotic capabilities. These vacuums are designed for users who demand the best in terms of performance, convenience, and longevity, making them suitable for larger homes or those with specific cleaning challenges.
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